Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/cut-it-out-toyotas-recalled-pedal-modification-remedy-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Toyota/Lexus gas pedal recall modification - click above for gallery

Late last month, Toyota announced that it would begin its biggest recall action ever, summoning 3.8 million cars and trucks back to its dealers to combat "pedal entrapment" by cutting down the accelerator pedals of customer cars to avoid them getting hung-up on floormats, resulting in "unintended acceleration." Although Toyota plans to eventually substitute redesigned units for the shaved pedals (beginning in April), for the moment, it's shaved pedals or nothing.

Up until now, we didn't know what went into the modification process or how the finished pedal looks, as Toyota has worked hard to keep this process confidential. However, thanks to an anonymous Autoblog reader who happens to work in service at a Lexus franchise, we now have a much better idea of what goes into the process. Our source reveals that he's only witnessed the alteration carried out on a ES350, not the IS or any other Toyota model, but we imagine the process is quite similar for other vehicles.

In any case, the procedure is surprisingly involved, with the automaker providing the following tools to every dealership: A cutter, an electric sanding wheel, a gauge to measure how much of the pedal is to be removed and a smaller foam block to go under the carpet. Lexus is disbursing people from its area offices to train dealer technicians on the process, and Toyota is undoubtedly doing the same.

We'll let our source take it from here:
"We will have to remove the gas pedal from the vehicle and place it on a vise. Using the gauge, we are to mark the amount to be removed and cut it off. After this, we take the sanding wheel and angle the edges to make a smooth contoured surface that both looks nice and will not stick to the floor carpet or floor mat.

Also included in the repair is to replace a foam block under the floor carpet with a smaller one to lower the height of the floor slightly behind the gas pedal. What was explained to us is the foam block is glued to the bottom of the floor carpet from the factory. The block will need to be removed by heating the top side of the floor carpet with a hair dryer - not a heat gun. This is to prevent burning of the floor carpet.
(Click through to the jump for the rest of the process and more details)


Gallery: Toyota/Lexus gas pedal recall modification

Continue reading Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step

Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AvalonCamryIS 250IS 350IS250IS350LExus ES350Lexus IS 250Lexus IS 350LexusEs350LexusIs250LexusIs350NHTSApedal entrapmentpedal recallPedalEntrapmentPedalRecallPriusrecallTacomaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota pedalToyota Priustoyota recallToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPedalToyotaPriusToyotaRecallToyotaTacomaToyotaTundraTundraunintended accelerationUnintendedAccelerationFri, 18 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a protracted saga that has seen bidders drop in-and-out and old model tooling and assets sold off to the Chinese, the enigmatic brand known as Saab is dead. In a press release issued this morning, General Motors announced that the "intended sale of Saab Automobile AB would not be concluded." GM had been in talks with Dutch exoticmakers Spyker Cars after pursuing a number of other buyer leads (including the aborted sale with Koenigsegg), but The General says that in the course of due diligence, the resolution of certain unspecified issues became impossible in the time frame that they had set for themselves.

As such, GM will immediately begin the "wind down" of the much-loved yet perpetually unprofitable cult brand, but says it will continue to honor warranties and provide spare parts and service - presumably through other GM brand dealers - as Saab dealers go offline. Officials note that this is not a bankruptcy or forced liquidation situation, so outstanding creditors should still expect to receive payment.

It is not clear what will happen to the production-ready 2010 9-5, nor the current 9-3/9-3X model and almost-ready 9-4X. Official death certificate available after the jump, historical slide show of the brand in photographs viewable below.


Gallery: Saab – A History in Pictures


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand

BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab 9-32010 Saab 9-3x2010 Saab 9-52010Saab9-32010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-59-39-4x9-5brand closingBrandClosingbreakingbreakingnewsGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMsaabSaab 9-3Saab 9-4xSaab 9-5Saab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5spykerwind-downwinddownwindownFri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST<![CDATA[North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The finalists for the coveted 2010 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards have just been released ahead of next month's ceremony in Detroit.

Slated to be unveiled on the floor of the Detroit Auto Show on January 11, the nominees have been whittled down from 25 contenders to the following vehicles: In the car category, the Buick LaCrosse, Ford Fusion Hybrid and Volkswagen Golf will be waiting nervously in the wings, and in the truck category, the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Transit Connect, and Subaru Outback will vie for the title.

The awards are the result of the deliberations of 49 North American automotive journalists and the winners will succeed last year's winners, the Hyundai Genesis sedan and Ford F-150 pickup. Check out a high-res gallery of this year's finalists below, peruse the official press release after the jump, and then let us know which vehicles you think deserve to take home the hardware in Comments.


Gallery: 2010 North American Car & Truck of the Year finalists


[Source: North American Car & Truck of the Year]

Continue reading North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?

North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bugatti honors Dubai with three special editions Veyrons]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bugatti-honors-dubai-with-three-special-editions-veyrons/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bugatti-honors-dubai-with-three-special-editions-veyrons/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/bugatti-honors-dubai-with-three-special-editions-veyrons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Bugatti at the 2009 Dubai Motor Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

As with any other business, in the automotive sphere, it's mission critical to recognize on which side your bread is buttered - particularly in lean times like these. Bugatti may be losing money on each Veyron it builds, but that doesn't mean that company strategists don't know how to earn a crust. Need proof? This month's Dubai Motor Show finds the supercar builder unveiling a trio of special edition models in one of its most important markets.

The Middle East triumvirate will consist of the Veyron Nocturne, which features "galvanized side windows" that add continuity to the polished aluminum body panel accents, and there are also polished wheels and a "black nanocoated magnesium dashboard" with a center console rendered in galvanized platinum. Just five examples will be built.

Bugatti will also show its Veyron "Sang d'Argent" and a topless Grand Sport "Soliel de Nuit" model for those that like a little sun and sand in their hair. The former of which employs a silver metallic finish and alloys nicked from the Grand Sport and the latter incorporates "country coded" colors that include a silver metallic lower and an impossibly deep upper blue finish and a Havanna interior with quilted seats.

If you're interested, well, have your accountant's accountant ring up Bugatti, and summon your garage keeper to ensure you've got some extra room available in the first quarter of 2010 for when you take delivery. Oh, and you'll have to liberate anywhere from 1.45 million euro ($2.1M USD) to 1.65 million euro ($2.5M) from your chaise lounge cushions for the privilege. Not up for it? Well, you can at least check out our high-res images below and the official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Bugatti at the 2009 Dubai Motor Show


[Source: Bugatti]

Continue reading Bugatti honors Dubai with three special editions Veyrons

Bugatti honors Dubai with three special editions Veyrons originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Bugatti2010 bugatti grand sport soliel de nuit2010 bugatti veyron2010 Bugatti Veyron Sang dargent2010Bugatti2010BugattiGrandSportSolielDeNuit2010BugattiVeyron2010BugattiVeyronSangDargentBugattiDubaiDubai Motor ShowDubaiMotorShowexotic carexotic carsExoticCarExoticCarsGrand SportGrand Sport soliel de nuitGrandSportGrandSportSolielDeNuitMiddle EastMiddleEastsang dargentSangDargentsoliel de nuitSolielDeNuitsupercarVeyronVeyron Grand SportVeyron NocturneVEyron Sang dargentVeyronGrandSportVeyronNocturneVeyronSangDargentTue, 15 Dec 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/reader-spy-srt-fettled-dodge-journey-r-t-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've always been intrigued by the notion of a higher performance people carrier, from back before Car and Driver magazine's Ford Windstar-based SHOStar to various shadetree high-strung turbocharged Chrysler minivans and outright lunacy like Renault's Espace-bodied F1 car.

Of course, that isn't what you're looking at here: it's what appears to be an SRT-tweaked Dodge Journey R/T, a vehicle that we want to like for its useful size and packaging, but can't because of its indifferent drivetrains and tragic interior materials and ergonomics.

Now, normally we wouldn't get too excited about something like this, in part because private owners often add badges from other vehicles in order to make them seem more impressive (we just saw an i-VTEC Chevrolet Beretta the other day), but these spy shots sent in from reader Nick Leonard appear to be the real deal - not only does the Journey in question boast a well-integrated new front fascia, but also unique wheels, a lowered stance and a quad-outlet rear exhaust surrounded by a different valance. The clincher? Michigan manufacturer licence plates.

Nick says notes that he came upon the car in the parking lot of a Best Buy in Saginaw, Michigan, and he only noted a laptop bag and a jacket in the passenger seat - no sign of any further testing equipment or interesting things on the dashboard. He further instructs that there was an AWD badge on the car (not pictured).

Now, it isn't at all clear that this is a production-intent vehicle, especially considering that R/T and SRT are usually mutually-exclusive designations in the House of Pentastar. This vehicle might be something that bored engineers cooked up for their own entertainment, for a SEMA reveal, or perhaps for a customer clinic - but who knows? It could be something, right? If so, let's hope there's some genuine chutzpah under the sheetmetal, otherwise we're looking at the decline and dilution of the SRT-branded vehicles as we know it.

Check out our gallery of images below... and thanks for the shots, Nick!


Gallery: Reader Spy: SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T

Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Dodge2010 Dodge Journey2010Dodge2010DodgeJourneyDodgeDodge JourneyDodge Journey RTDodge SRTDodgeJourneyDodgeJourneyRtDodgeSrtjourneyJourney RTJourneyRtMPVperformance minivanperformance MPVPerformanceMinivanPerformanceMpvRTspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsSRTMon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/video-presenting-the-coolest-honda-civic-wagon-film-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Wagon Attack II- Click above to watch the (epic) video

More than a few Autobloggers regularly pine for the days when Honda (among other automakers) built simpler, smaller, lighter cars that were still packed with functionality. A sterling example of this philosophy is Honda's mid-Eighties Civic Wagon, the pioneering pent-roof with the brand's then-new RealTime 4WD system. Arguably one of the earliest crossovers, the Civic Wagon was incredibly robust, and more than a few enterprising shadetree mechanics have subsequently realized that they have similar tuning potential to their far more popular sedan and hatchback cousins. Enter the Attack Wagon.

Not only is the subject of Wagon Attack II a thoroughly bitchin' example of what can be done with forced induction and a few bulletproofing sessions, the folks that made the above video clearly went beyond the call of duty to chronicle its awesomeness in high-definition. Click through to the jump to watch the most entertaining - and arguably best quality - car video you'll see today. When you're done watching the 1989 Honda earn its Civic Shuttle namesake (as it was known in other markets) vaulting off Michigan's Silver Lake Sand Dunes and tearing around broken-down airport runways, be sure to check out the making-of video as well.

And yes, we want one now too. Thanks for the tip, Luke!

[Source: WagonAttack.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever

VIDEO: Presenting the coolest Honda Civic Wagon film ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostCivicHonda CivicHonda Civic ShuttleHonda Civic WagonHonda ShuttleHondaCivicHondaCivicShuttleHondaCivicWagonHondaShuttleoff-roadOff-road parkoff-roadingOff-roadParkReal time 4wdReal-Time 4wdReal-time4wdRealTime 4wdRealTime4wdShuttlesilver lake sand dunesSilverLakeSandDunesWed, 09 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Danica Patrick joining NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/officially-official-danica-patrick-joining-nascar-nationwide-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/officially-official-danica-patrick-joining-nascar-nationwide-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/officially-official-danica-patrick-joining-nascar-nationwide-se/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Danica Patrick No. 7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet - Click above for high-res image gallery

The "Will she, won't she" debate is over - Danica Patrick is headed for closed-wheel racing in 2010. Patrick will race a partial schedule in next year's National Nationwide series in the No. 7 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet, and she will also participate in one ARCA race. As a driver on the No. 7 team, she will be signed through 2011 to the JR Motorsports team that's owned by Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Rick Hendrick, Kelley Earnhardt and Tony Eury, Jr. through 2011.

This bit of news is not to say that Danica is eschewing her open-wheel career - she will also continue to race her similarly day-glo green Andretti Autosport IndyCar, also in full GoDaddy.com regalia. The NASCAR events that she will race in will be interlaced with her IndyCar schedule, before, during, and after the open-wheel season.

Danica's first stock car race will be a February 6 ARCA race in Daytona, the day before the Super Bowl. As usual, her primary sponsors will feature Patrick in a slate of new commercials during the big NFL game, and we're willing to bet that they'll have a bit of NASCAR flavor. High-res gallery of her new ride below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Danica Patrick NASCAR


[Source: GoDaddy.com]

Continue reading Officially Official: Danica Patrick joining NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2010

Officially Official: Danica Patrick joining NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARCADanicaDanica PatrickDanicaPatrickEarnhardtfemale racerFemaleRacerGo DaddyGoDaddyGodaddy.comhendrickhendrick motorsportsHendrickMotorsportsIndy carIndyCarNASCARnationwideNationwide seriesNationwideSeriesstock carstock car racingstock carsStockCarStockCarRacingStockCarsSuper BowlSuper bowl commercialsSuperBowlSuperBowlCommercialsTue, 08 Dec 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi A7 confirmed for U.S. and S8 model in the works, but once again, no A5 Sportback]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/audi-a7-confirmed-for-north-america-and-s8-model-in-the-works-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/audi-a7-confirmed-for-north-america-and-s8-model-in-the-works-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/audi-a7-confirmed-for-north-america-and-s8-model-in-the-works-b/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Audi A8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

At last week's tony Design Miami reveal of the 2011 A8 luxury cruiser, we were able to corner Johan de Nysschen, Audi's executive vice president in North America, and ask him for some tasty tibits on the brand's upcoming products, including the A8's sexier derivative, the A7.

In addition to giving us the first official confirmation of the A7's existence, de Nysschen revealed that the four-door coupe model will slot in "a little bit below" the new A8 in terms of pricing, just as we expected. Of course, it's worth noting that the 2011 A8 faces a price bump due to substantial increases in content and technology, so when the A7 finally comes to the States, the average model is likely to sticker at around $82,000-$83,000, which de Nysschen says is about the price for a typically equipped 2010 A8 (pricing starts at $74,550 plus delivery).

Based on Audi's new longitudinal modular platform technology, the A7 will be clearly related to the A8 (and the A6 replacement that will follow it), and de Nysschen says that the 2009 Detroit Auto Show Sportback concept car serves as a "very reliable indicator" of what the production model will look like. Judging by recent spy shots from our friends at KGP, that very much appears to be the case. While parts commonality will be "substantial," de Nysschen says that the A7 will not use the full aluminum spaceframe design of the A8, although it will have aluminum elements.

As expected, the A8 will launch Stateside in both standard and long-wheelbase formats, with the latter predicted to make up the lion's share of the volume (the A8L presently accounts for about 80 percent of the model's sales).

We asked De Nysschen about how the two models will interact in the full-size luxury sedan segment, and he noted that:
"This top end segment is characterized by more conservative people, and we need to clearly take lower levels of risk with a flagship model [the A8]. But we recognize too that there is a sizable enough cluster of customers in that same segment who are ready for a more avant-garde design [the A7]. So we will essentially be positioning two cars into the same segment, which means that independently, the volume each attains is not that significant, but when you put them together, it will mean that our share of that segment will grow quite dramatically."
All-in De Nysschen thinks that the A8 will account for about 4,000 to 5,000 sales per year in the U.S., and the less costly A7 could clear 7,000-8,000 additional units.

And what of a high-performance S8 to take on Mercedes-Benz's AMG lineup, or the A5 Sportback? Click through to the jump for more details.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A8: Live from Miami

Continue reading Audi A7 confirmed for U.S. and S8 model in the works, but once again, no A5 Sportback

Audi A7 confirmed for U.S. and S8 model in the works, but once again, no A5 Sportback originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Audi A82010AudiA82011 Audi A82011AudiA8A7A8Audi A5 sportbackAudi A7Audi A8Audi S8Audi sportbackAudiA5SportbackAudiA7AudiA8AudiS8AudiSportbackS8sportbacksportback conceptSportbackConceptMon, 07 Dec 2009 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/gm-responds-to-more-camaro-transmission-failure-talk-on-enthusia/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/gm-responds-to-more-camaro-transmission-failure-talk-on-enthusia/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/gm-responds-to-more-camaro-transmission-failure-talk-on-enthusia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Back in July, we first told you about a serious driveline issue that was cropping up in Chevrolet's new-for-2010 Camaro. In specific, output shafts were failing on V8 manual transmission SS models, a malady that was generally tied to hard launches or use of the car's launch control system. The problem eventually resulted in General Motors conducting some warranty repairs and briefly issuing a factory hold of the SS while it fixed the problem, and as far as we knew, that was that.

That was the last we heard of the issue until AB reader Billie informed us that talks regarding output shaft failure were once again heating up over at the owner discussion forums of Camaro5.com - so much so that GM's own John Fitzpatrick, the marketing manager of Chevrolet's performance cars, chimed in with a statement on behalf of the automaker, the text of which you can read after the break.

Basically, Fitzpatrick says that after a review of the issue, GM is confident that failure rates "under normal driving conditions are very low... even in the most extreme driving condition, the probability of failure does not significantly change." In any case, Fitzpatrick assures that GM will continue to stand behind their five-year/100,000 mile warranty coverage.

For the most part, it seems like Fitzpatrick's comments have assuaged the concerned parties on Camaro5 (there are definitely still a few disgruntled folks), but if nothing else, it's nice to see another example of an automaker wading into the internet fray to directly address customer issues.


Gallery: One Night Stand: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source, Camaro5.com]

Continue reading GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum

GM responds to more Camaro transmission failure talk on enthusiast forum originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Camaro2010 Chevrolet2010 Chevrolet Camaro2010Camaro2010Chevrolet2010ChevroletCamaroCamarCamaro SSCamaro V8camaro5CamaroSsCamaroV8John FitzpatrickJohnFitzpatrickmuscle carMuscleCaroutput shaftOutputShaftpony carPonyCarwarranty claimWarrantyClaimFri, 04 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/spy-shots-baby-buick-sedan-caught-in-germany/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Buick small sedan prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, we showed you the first official rendering of Buick's forthcoming small car, a shrunken LaCrosse lookalike that is expected to be based on the European market Opel Astra. The image was flashed on the screen during General Motors' presentation of the new 2011 Buick Regal at this week's LA Auto Show, and judging by these latest spy shots from our friends at CarPix, it would appear that the rendering gives us a very good look at the upcoming sedan.

As we saw in an earlier batch of shots, the Delta-II platform-based model (known as the Excelle in China) will retain Buick's signature waterfall grille, yet unlike the Regal, it will have a set of horizontally-mounted ventiports to add a bit of the marque's characteristic flash. In the past, the number of ventiport holes indicated the number of cylinders of the engine lurking beneath the sheetmetal, but in this case, we don't expect for the as-yet-unnamed U.S. sedan to carry more than four cylinders.

With the Regal and this forthcoming small sedan, GM is clearly making a big push to lower the average buyer age of its Buick division by injecting a bit of sport and perhaps a greater measure of affordability. Is this the right strategy for the brand, or is The General at risk of revisiting the same brand perception (and brand overlap) issues it had in the Eighties with smaller cars like the Somerset and Century? Be sure to check out our high-res gallery below and then hop into Comments to let us know what you think.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Baby Buick caught in Germany


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby buickBabyBuickBuickBuick ExcelleBuickExcelleExcellesmall buickSmallBuickspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsFri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning <b>[UPDATE: Confirmed]</b>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Having just been appointed interim CEO at General Motors earlier this week, ex-AT&T man Ed Whitacre isn't wasting any time in exercising his newfound authority. According to The Wall Street Journal, Whitacre is to announce a number of management changes this morning, including moving Vice Chairman Bob Lutz from his role in marketing to a more product planning-focused role. Whitacre is also expected to promote some of the company's younger managers to new positions, although it has not yet been revealed who is targeted.

According to the WSJ, Whitacre "drew up the new management blueprint in a matter of four hours," suggesting to us that he already had a number of changes in mind. Further, he is also expected to combine GM's sales and marketing divisions

While Whitacre has only been on the job since Tuesday and he is technically only considered an interim appointment at this time, the search for a new CEO is thought likely to take months, if not a year. From the looks of things, Whitacre isn't looking at himself as simply a placeholder, though, and we wouldn't be surprised to see more changes as the weeks and months roll by.

*UPDATE: Changes confirmed: GM has issued a press release (viewable after the jump). Among the moves, Bob Lutz will be an 'advisor' on design and global product - he will retain his title of vice chairman. Other changes include Mark Reuss named as president of GM North America, Susan Docherty appointed VP, vehicle sales, service, and marketing operations. For a full list of changes, click past the jump for the release.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal I Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed]

BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bob LutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewsEd WhitacreEdWhitacreGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGM CEOGmCeomanagement changesmanagement shakeupManagementChangesManagementShakeupmark reussMarkReusssusan dochertySusanDochertyWhitacreFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

As General Motors suddenly finds itself in search for a new CEO to replace Fritz Henderson, it is also looking to secure a buyer for perennially troubled Saab. GM originally thought it had a new parent for the brand in Koenigsegg, but after that deal went sour, Detroit officials confirmed that it they would give themselves up until the end of the year to find a new buyer instead of simply shutting Saab down.

A number of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the brand since that time, and it has now been confirmed that the Swedish marque has another supercar-building pursuer: Spyker. The Netherlands-based exotic manufacturer has just issued a brief statement confirming that it - along with its shareholders at the Convers Group - has indeed "expressed an interest in Saab Automobile AB" (text available after the jump). Spyker has never been a brand short of ambition (remember its ill-fated Formula One effort?), but taking on Saab would be its most ambitious undertaking yet.

In related news, marque website Saab History is reporting that the US-based Merbanco group has not been chosen by GM as a possible purchaser. According to the SH, Merbanco CEO Christopher Johnston released a statement to the enthusiast group that says:

"As most of you know, we ride with the brand, the fit was good, and were up to the challenges ahead. It is now time for us to depart the field and support the company and its outstanding people.

We are grateful to all of you, fellow Saab enthusiasts and the Saab team for the support you have us. It will never be forgotten. Heartfelt thanks, Ryan and friends for your support."

(Saab History had previously conducted an interview with Johnston, the contents of which you can find here.)

Interestingly, UK buff book Autocar is reporting that yesterday's ousting of Fritz Henderson could stem from the exec's apparent desire to close Saab, a viewpoint that was evidently not shared by the rest of GM's board. We suspect there were a whole host of issues that led to Henderson's resignation, but it's likely that GM's trustees would prefer to offload the brand rather than incur substantial shutdown costs. Call it a "potential contributing factor," if you will.

Either way, do you think Saab will survive this tumult? Drop us a line in 'Comments.'


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Sources: Spyker; Saab History; Autocar; Automotive News]

Continue reading Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed?

Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutocarChristopher JohnstonChristopherJohnstonFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMMerbancoSaabSaab historySaabHistorySpykerWed, 02 Dec 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Audi A8 revealed amidst the stars at Design Miami 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-audi-a8-unveiled-in-miami/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-audi-a8-unveiled-in-miami/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-audi-a8-unveiled-in-miami/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Audi A8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've just returned from the Audi A8 world premiere here at Miami's star-studded Design Week, and we've got a slew of images of the new range-topping sedan. More evolutionary than revolutionary in style, the new wundersedan is nevertheless an impressive looking piece with the visual charisma to go toe-to-toe with the celebrities that filed in to fawn over its broad shoulders.

Despite the clear heritage link to the outgoing model, there are a number of new technologies under the skin that represent firsts for the brand, including full LED headlamps that adjust their direction and throw based on the navigation system, a new development of MMI that includes a handwriting recognition feature, and an updated 4.2-liter FSI V8 engine with more power (372 horses) and an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox. Despite being more powerful, the A8 is also more fuel efficient, with a claimed improvement of 15 percent with the aforementioned gas V8.

The slippery new shell once again rests on the brand's Aluminum Space Frame (ASF), and Audi says the car is longer and wider than its competitors, yet it sits lower. The sleek new bodywork is good for a .26 coefficient of drag. When it comes to America late next year, the new A8 will arrive in both standard and extended-wheelbase models, and we have it on good authority that both TDI and hybrid variants will also come to the States - although the alternative fuel powertrains aren't likely to happen right away. While you're waiting, check out our high-res galleries below as well as the official press release. We're working on uploading video of the new A8 as well, so check back soon.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A8: Live from Miami


Gallery: 2011 Audi A8


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2011 Audi A8 revealed amidst the stars at Design Miami 2009

2011 Audi A8 revealed amidst the stars at Design Miami 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 A82011 Audi A82011A82011AudiA8a8audiAudi A8Audi sedanAudiA8AudiSedanDesign MiamiDesign WeekDesignMiamiDesignWeekFeaturedLucy LiuLucyLiuMon, 30 Nov 2009 21:34:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/2011-ford-mustang-v6-la-2009-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Ford Mustang V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It would be reasonable to expect that Ford might pass over the Mustang and instead devote more attention to its other models since it's fresh off a comprehensive revamp for the 2010 model year. However, that's not what is shaping up in the House That Henry Built.

For 2011, the Blue Oval is introducing a new 3.7-liter V6 Mustang that should give it the firepower and refinement needed to take on Chevrolet's six-cylinder Camaro and Hyundai's upstart Genesis Coupe. But it isn't just the spanking all-aluminum powerplant and its 305 horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of torque that's making the scene for the forthcoming model year. In addition to the Cleveland-sourced mill, there are a pair of fresh gearboxes, a new V6 performance package, and a host of nip/tucks to the interior and elsewhere.

Now, we could grouse on behalf of 2010 MY 'Stang owners everywhere that these upgrades weren't part of last year's mid-life updo, but instead, we'll just be happy that these advancements are arriving at all.

Despite being smaller than the outgoing 4.0-liter V6, the dual-overhead cam 3.7-liter's horsepower and torque ratings represent massive improvements over the 2010 model (305 HP dismisses 210 HP and 280 lb-ft. plays 240 torques). In fact, that's more horsepower than the 4.6-liter V8 Mustang made just a few years ago. While the 305-horse figure only allows the Mustang to pip the crosstown Camaro by a single all-important stallion in the pony car bragging wars, Ford says the powertrain will be good for 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway when paired with its new six-speed automatic, also one notch better than the Chevy.

Click through to the jump to read more details and check out Ford's suite of press releases.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 3.7-liter V6


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG

LA Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang V6 makes 305 HP, gets 30 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Ford Mustang2011 ford mustang v62011FordMustang2011FordMustangV63.73.7-literBlue OvalBlueOvalfeaturedfordFord Mustangford mustang v6FordMustangFordMustangV6lala 2009LA Auto ShowLA Auto Show 2009LA showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowLos Angeles 2009Los Angeles Auto ShowLosAngeles2009LosAngelesAutoShowMuscle CarMuscleCarMustangMustang V6MustangV6Pony CarPonyCarStangV6 MustangV6MustangMon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecallWed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

For U.S. Subaru enthusiasts, it has long seemed like the folks at Fuji Heavy forgot that we might be interested in special-edition WRX models too. New hotted-up variants of the all-wheel-drive hero car have been released in the UK and elsewhere on what seems like a monthly basis, but here in the States, we've largely done without. Thankfully, at last there is just such a U.S. model in the pipeline, and it's headed for the LA Auto Show.

The the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition starts by utilizing the suspension package form the JDM WRX STI Spec C (1mm thicker rear antisway bar, stiffer springs and more robust rear subframe bushings), and the model also inherits the charcoal 18 x 8.5-inch 14-spoke alloys from that car as well.

Interestingly, the Special Edition is decontented somewhat. Unlike the standard U.S. STI, the SE makes do with a downgraded stereo (single-disc CD/four speakers versus six-disc/10 speakers), manual HVAC controls, conventional halogen headlamps, and indicator-free side mirrors. It isn't immediately clear if this change in specification helps shave any weight, but the smaller stereo alone probably helps the car drop a few pounds.

Subaru says it plans to initially offer the Special Edition in a limited run of 125 units this Spring, all painted Aspen White. Later in 2010, the Special Edition will become a normal production model available in other colors. Pricing has not yet been released, but if you're at all interested in one of the first 125 examples, we'd suggest getting on a list with your local dealer now. Check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms

LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2008LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoShow2008ScoobySpecial EditionSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru WRXSubaruWrxSubieWRXWRX STiWRX STI Spec CWRX STI Special EditionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEditionTue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After riding in on a white horse, Koenigsegg Group AB has pulled out of negotiations to buy Saab from General Motors, leaving the Swedish automaker's future very much in doubt. In a brief statement issued by GM (available after the jump), president and CEO Fritz Henderson says that the company is "very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase."

It is unclear what will happen to the brand now, but if Saab fans can hold on to any hope, GM says it will "take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week." It is worth noting that this is different from the brief announcement that GM issued when Roger Penske's group pulled out from buying Saturn - GM immediately announced that they would begin "winding down" the brand. There was at least one other serious bidder interested in purchasing Saab previous to Koenigsegg becoming the preferred purchaser, but it isn't immediately clear if they are still interested, or if their financial backing checked out to begin with.

We suspect that even if Saab is unable to survive as a brand, someone will step in and purchase the assets to the already tooled-up forthcoming 9-5 sedan - perhaps the Chinese - and potentially the newish 9-3/9-3X as well.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air

BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-5breakingFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsKoenigseggSaabSaab 9-5Saab9-5Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2011-buick-regal-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's an odd bit of historical deja vu at work here. Back in the late '60s and early '70s, General Motors wanted to shift a few sporty-ish four-cylinder models from its Opel division into America, so they turned to their Buick dealers. This didn't work out exactly as planned - merchandising these odd European ducks in an outlet best known for sober doctor's cars meant that the GT, Manta and Kadett never managed to make much of a dent in North America's automotive landscape. This time out, with the Opel Insignia-derived 2011 Buick Regal, GM knows it needs massively better results.

This is a Buick the likes of which we have never seen before.
While attending an early drive event for the new Regal last week, we reminded vice-chairman Bob Lutz about the last time his company attempted to sell Opels in Buick showrooms. He laughed his trademark raspy laugh, and reminded us that Car and Driver so loathed the 1968 Kadett that their review featured it photographed in a junkyard. With characteristic candor, Lutz tells us, "It actually wasn't a very good car." Of course, Maximum Bob knows full well that GM can't afford another lost in space Kadett. Does the Regal have what it takes to mollify these "sins of the father" and put Buick on the right track? Click through to the jump to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport

First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal prototype looks to be a good sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 buick2011 Buick regal2011 regal2011Buick2011BuickRegal2011RegalBob LutzBobLutzbuickbuick regalBuickRegalFeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMopelOpel GTopel insigniaOpel KadettOpel MagnaOpelGtOpelInsigniaOpelKadettOpelMagnaregalMon, 23 Nov 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Lexus to lease - not sell - all U.S. LFA supercars in order to foil speculators]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-lexus-to-lease-not-sell-all-500-lfa-supercars-in-ord/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Lexus LFA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In an interesting bid to foil exotic car speculators who drive up the prices of limited-availability models, Lexus will reportedly lease - not sell - its forthcoming LFA supercar when it hits the U.S. market in January of 2011. As Automotive News reports, Lexus will only offer two-year leases of its 552-horsepower supercar at a fixed price (which has not yet been disclosed). At the conclusion of the two year period, leaseholders will get the opportunity to purchase the vehicle outright, at which point the title would be handed over. As Lexus' vice president of sales and dealer development Brian Smith tells it, his company wants "people out driving the car and not just parking it in a museum or selling it at an inflated price."

As part of the gearing-up process to sell this markedly different kind of vehicle, Lexus will also reportedly train 15 LFA specialists that will be located at the company's four regional outposts, and the Japanese automaker will also pay for dealers to receive the special tools and training that will service the vehicles.

Despite being a lease, all cars will still be individually tailored to the customer and built-to-order beginning in December of 2010.

This is certainly an interesting and potentially very clever end-around on the speculator's market. If it works, look for other exotic car companies like Ferrari and Lamborghini to follow suit.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Lexus LFA


Photos copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Automotive News]

REPORT: Lexus to lease - not sell - all U.S. LFA supercars in order to foil speculators originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car leasecar leasingcar speculatorCarLeaseCarLeasingCarSpeculatorexotic carexotic car leasingExoticCarExoticCarLeasingleaseleasinglexusLF-ALFAspeculatorspeculatorssupercarMon, 23 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick2011 Regal2011Buick2011RegalbreakingbreakingnewsBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalJim FedericoJimFedericomanual transmissionManualTransmissionRegalstick shiftstick-shiftStickShiftThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST